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Anemia of chronic disease - Treatment

Alternative Names

Anemia of inflammation

Treatment:

The anemia will get better when the disease that is causing it is treated.

The condition is rarely severe enough to require a blood transfusion. Iron supplements may sometimes be used, although they should only be given to patients whose iron levels are low.

Expectations (prognosis):

The anemia will improve when the disease that is causing it is successfully treated.

Complications:

Discomfort from symptoms is the main complication in most cases.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a chronic disorder and you develop symptoms of anemia.

Blood cells

Reviewed last on: 4/5/2009
Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Ginder GD. Microcytic and hypochromic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 163.

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